Space Heaters

The University of Richmond recognizes that individuals have different levels of comfort associated with temperature and heat. The use of electric space heaters as a temporary measure is permitted in administrative and academic buildings.

Guidelines are as follows:

Space heaters are not allowed in University housing.

Any space heater must be UL approved

Space heater must have a thermostat that shuts unit off when a certain temperature is reached

Space heater must be electrically powered; Fuel powered or propane space heaters are not approved

Space heater must have a tip over shut down feature; If a space heater is knocked over, the unit must automatically shut off

Space heater must be kept at least three feet away from any combustible materials such as files, curtains, and trash cans

Space heater shall not be placed under desks or in other enclosed areas

Nothing shall be placed on top or touching a space heater

Space heater must be turned off and unplugged when the area is not occupied

Space heater should always be plugged into a wall receptacle

Space heater must be kept in good working condition

Read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions

The University of Richmond Department of Environmental Health and Safety reserves the right to inspect and declare "unapproved" any space heater that creates a hazard or is inappropriate to a particular location based on specific circumstances or codes.